Each painting features the name of the individual and a narrative about what was happening in Spain (and the world) at the time that pertains to each settler. Each 30-by-30-inch painting also contains the real person’s name, occupation and year they arrived in St. Augustine.

“I did this for people to be educated,” Trousdell said. He explained that the bright colors reflect the natural colors of Florida — bright blue sky, sun and deep blue waters.

“People love the colors.”

Also on each painting is an icon that symbolizes what the person did for a living.

“The icons enable the viewer to understand what the story is about,” Trousdell said.

The last layer of paint used for each icon is black, but a rainbow of neon colors underneath show through by using a technique called “scratch art.”

The black paint is scratched from the surface, revealing glowing colors. Adults and children can both relate to these icons because the popular “scratch art” is sold in the children’s section of art stores.

In the painting of Anton Romero, a Night Watch in the year 1608, a bat icon indicates that the young man stays up late at night to keep watch over the Oldest City. He also holds a lantern up with his left hand, while his right hand grasps the top of a sheathed sword just below his waist.

“Don captures incredibly well the spirit and character of St. Augustine first European settlers, the very foundation of our nation,” said Dana Ste. Claire, director of the St. Augustine 450th Commemoration Department.

“His unique folksy, colorful style is engaging to audiences, but there are important history lessons buried in each work of art.”

The “Ordinary People” exhibition art was purchased by a private donor for the 450th Commemoration. It will be packaged as a traveling exhibition to journey around the state and share the story of St. Augustine. Admission is free. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Oct. 25. Go to staugustine-450.com/ordinary-people-exhibit.

“It’s a perfect educational, cultural arts resource to share with the rest of the state during the three-year run of the 450th Commemoration,” Ste. Claire said.